Are you looking to jumpstart your coding career, but are unsure about which coding bootcamp to choose? With the growing number of coding bootcamps available today, it can be difficult to determine which ones offer the quality instruction and resources you need to succeed. Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered! In this article, we’ll provide five hacks that will help you separate the best coding bootcamps from the bad.
Research the Staff & Instructors
When considering a coding bootcamp, it’s essential to research the staff and instructors who will be leading the program. The quality of the instruction and mentorship can play a big role in the success of a bootcamp.
When researching the staff and instructors of a coding bootcamp online, it’s valuable to look for the following:
Experience: Look for instructors who have experience working as software developers or engineers and who have a solid understanding of the technologies and concepts they’ll be teaching.
Credentials: Check whether the instructors have relevant degrees or certifications in computer science or a related field.
Passion for teaching: Look for instructors who are passionate about teaching and mentoring students. They should be excited about helping students achieve their goals and be approachable and available to help students during and after class.
Diversity: A diverse group of instructors and staff can provide different perspectives and experiences that benefit students.
Read Reviews & Testimonials of the Programming Bootcamp
Reading testimonials from past students is a great way to get a sense of the overall quality and success of a coding bootcamp. Testimonials can provide valuable insights into the bootcamp’s curriculum, instruction, and support, as well as the outcomes students have achieved after completing the program.
When reading testimonials, it’s important to remember that everyone’s experience is unique and that one person’s positive experience does not guarantee the same outcome for others. However, reading various testimonials from different students can give you a good overall sense of the bootcamp’s strengths and weaknesses.
Here are a few things to look for when reading testimonials and reviews of the best coding bootcamps:
- How past students felt about the communication between them and the educators.
- If past students felt that the course taught them everything it promised.
- Read the negative reviews too.
- Consider your personal needs.
Assess Curriculum Structure & Quality
The curriculum should align with your career goals and provide the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in your chosen field. When investing in a bootcamp, you want to make sure you have the option for the program to teach you the best coding language to learn today.
Think about the following:
Technologies and languages taught: Check to see if the bootcamp covers the technologies and programming languages relevant to your career goals.
Project-based learning: Look for a curriculum that is heavily focused on hands-on, project-based learning. This will give you the opportunity to apply what you’ve learned in a real-world setting and build a portfolio of work to showcase to potential employers.
Career support: Many bootcamps offer career support services, such as job search assistance, resume and portfolio review, and interview preparation. This can be a valuable resource for students who are looking to transition into a new career.
Flexibility: Some bootcamps offer self-paced or flexible options, which allows the student to work and study at the same time. Are you looking for the best coding bootcamps part-time or full-time?
Learning level: You do not want to sign up for a program that is WAY above or below your current skill. Consider going for the best coding bootcamp for beginners if you do not know much and vice versa, if you are already knowledgeable.
Ask About Placement Rates of the Tech Bootcamp
The placement rate of coding bootcamps is one of the most important factors to consider when researching them; this refers to how many graduates find employment in their field of study after graduating.
Students who graduate from a bootcamp are likely to be prepared for careers in technology due to a high placement rate. Depending on the bootcamp, program, and job market, placement rates can vary.
Inquire about a specific placement rate and not just general statements, as well as the timeframe in which the placement rate is calculated, and the type of employment graduates obtain upon graduation.
Remember, the best coding bootcamps online will gladly share detailed placement rate reports to encourage you to join!
Consider Coding Bootcamp Cost and Financing Options
When looking for the best coding bootcamp, costs are an important consideration. In order to find a bootcamp that fits your budget, it’s imperative to research the different options. Financing options offered by bootcamps can make the program more affordable, such as scholarships, loans, or income-sharing agreements.
Aside from the cost of the bootcamp itself, you should also consider the potential return on investment (ROI) if the career you will be pursuing after completing the program can offset the cost. The ROI can be obtained by researching the average salary of professionals in your desired field. In addition, research the job placement rate of the bootcamp.
Sometimes the cheapest option may not be the most suitable, but it’s also wise not to overpay for a program you cannot afford. Consider the potential career opportunities, as well as the coding bootcamp cost, when determining whether it is worth it.
